The Difference between Psoriasis and Eczema, Rosacea, and Couperose Skin

Which skin condition do you have?

Do you have areas of red skin, perhaps some dry, itchy skin or even blisters or rash? There are several skin conditions—Eczema and Psoriasis as well as Rosacea and Couperose—which share a number of characteristics and which are, in some cases, indistinguishable from each other.

The two most closely related skin conditions are Psoriasis and Eczema. Let’s start by looking at the differences between Eczema and Psoriasis.*

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Eczema

Eczema vs. Psoriasis

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, dry, cracked and itchy skin. In addition to hot, red skin, those with Eczema may also develop crusty sores, thick skin and pimple-like eruptions. The skin may crust over and ooze, or it may become so dry and cracked that bleeding occurs. Most people with Eczema develop the problem during childhood.

Psoriasis appears as red, itchy, scaly patches of dry skin. There are a variety of forms of Psoriasis, the most prevalent of which is Plaque Psoriasis. The slightly elevated, red patches of skin associated with Psoriasis are known as plaques. These often start out as small bumps which worsen and may later be covered in white scales. Skin scaling (when these white scales begin to slough off) is common.

Psoriasis

Eczema and Psoriasis are easily confused because they share a defining characteristic, the inflammation of the skin. What are the significant differences between Psoriasis and Eczema?

Eczema sufferers experience extremely dry, itchy and flaky skin, but this skin condition can also cause eczema pimple-like bumps that may ooze. These fluid-filled bumps do not occur in Psoriasis. In fact, a major difference between psoriasis and eczema is that Psoriasis is never moist; instead, it produces scaly, silver patches of dead skin that continually shed.

Psoriasis is often linked to genetics; this condition is caused or exacerbated by internal health issues (there is a link between Psoriasis and Diabetes, for example). Eczema, on the other hand, flares up in response to external factors, including animal dander, food allergies or exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals.

Eczema usually begins during childhood (roughly 80% of cases of eczema begin before the age of 5) whereas Psoriasis typically originates in adulthood.

Psoriasis prefers tougher skin (such as that on the knees and elbows) while Eczema favors sensitive areas like the backs of knees and the inside of elbows.

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Couperose vs. Rosacea

"Couperose" is a term used to describe skin that has broken or dilated capillaries. Skin that is Couperose is chronically red and flushed in appearance, particularly on the neck, cheeks and nose. Rosacea is an inflammation of the skin that is marked by redness, dilated blood vessels and—in some cases—papules and pustules. Those with Rosacea might experience a red nose, red cheeks or blushing.

Couperose skin and Rosacea can appear very similar. The following list represents the differences between Couperose and Rosacea:

Couperose skin is usually found on those with very pale complexions living in cold, harsh climates. The skin appears dry and tight and is not inflamed. Meanwhile, Rosacea is marked by excessive inflammation, facial flushing and bumps on the skin.

Rosacea may be accompanied by a burning, stinging sensation that is similar to sunburn. The skin may simply feel warm. Couperose skin does not experience this sensation.

Skin that is Couperose is not subjected to the acne-like pimples that are found in some cases of Rosacea.

Some Rosacea sufferers may experience Couperose skin as a symptom.

Other Similar Skin Conditions

Rosacea Vs. Psoriasis: When there are symptoms of Psoriasis on the face, it can sometimes be mistaken for Rosacea. Although both conditions are characterized by redness and inflammation, Psoriasis will produce scaly patches of dry, silver skin while Rosacea will appear more as redness, flushing and—in some cases—acne-like eruptions.

Rosacea Vs Eczema: There are times when Rosacea may seem similar to Eczema. However, while Eczema produces sores or blisters that may ‘weep’ a clear fluid, Rosacea sufferers are more likely to experience papules or pus-filled pustules. This is the main difference between Eczema and Rosacea.

Like Eczema, Rosacea often responds to environmental stressors (allergens, spicy food) but it is also caused by internal factors (as is Psoriasis).

*The webpage is for entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Speak with your doctor regarding all diagnoses and treatment options.